Today we’d like to introduce you to Berdy Solorio.
Hi Berdy, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Designs by Queen B officially launched in 2021, but I have been developing and growing this business for many years. My godmother was the one who introduced me to this industry, and I am forever grateful for her. Her knowledge and will to show everyone what she loved inspired me to start my own journey in this industry. I started decorating family parties and I learned how to make organic balloon garlands by watching lots of YouTube tutorials. Eventually, I got the hang of it, but I still change up my techniques from time to time so I can perfect my craft and change things up a bit. I spent countless hours watching videos and learning how to work with balloons, florals, and other types of décor. I also spent countless hours watching videos on how to edit photos, videos, and how to get better at graphic design. I want to build a multifaceted company, not just with my event décor business but with my brand. I am so thankful to have such loving and supportive parents. When I first started, I started off charging little to nothing because I wanted to get my name out there and I eventually started charging what I think I deserve, and I couldn’t be any happier. I’m at a place where I know I can deliver exceptional service and leave my clients happy. All the blood, sweat, and tears have been worth it because my business has grown into something I never thought was possible. I’m able to have so much creative freedom from my clients because they trust the process and have trust in me. I’m at the point where potential clients send me my own work as reference photos, which is really a full circle moment for me and lets me know, “I made it.”
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I wish I could say it’s been a smooth road, but it hasn’t. It’s been a struggle in trying to learn how to balance everything in life. I’m the type of person that overworks herself because I’m an overly ambitious person. It was difficult to juggle a full-time job, my business, school, and personal life but as time has gone by, I’ve been better at managing my time. I had to really sit down and create a schedule that works best for me and my priorities. Running a business involves sacrificing my time with friends and family, sacrificing leisure time; sacrifice is a big part of running a business because you want it to be successful. There were many sleepless nights trying to figure out how to get things done or taking on more than I could and having to do a lot more work than what was asked for. Luckily, I’ve had people cheering me on my journey. I couldn’t have done this without them. My dad has been my backbone because he makes all of my backdrops and backs me up whenever I have a crazy idea. I also couldn’t have done this without my mom because she’s the one that looks out for me and my well-being and makes sure I eat or is the one to tell me to take a rest because she knows how exhausted I am. Of course, I also have to thank my best friend, Carlos, for keeping me grounded, as well as my cousins Daisy, Janet, Becky, and my godmother Maria. Also, a special shoutout to friend Mikayla, who motivates me and keeps in check. I don’t know what I would do without all the support I have around me.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about Designs by Queen B?
Designs by Queen B is family-owned, and I am the first person in my family to start and own a business. My business focuses on balloon styling, but as time has gone by, I’ve expanded into florals and other party decor. We now offer a multitude of services such as balloon styling, centerpieces, welcome signs, party favors, backdrop rentals, props, and hopefully, we’ll be able to offer party planning soon. We are known for our artistic and detailed work. Our statement pieces, such as a backdrop, are detailed and artistically crafted. We create unique backdrops or props to make their event stand out and give the ultimate WOW factor. Our clients love that we go above and beyond for them and offer many options to accommodate their budget. My team and I think about every detail possible to make a setup unique and make our clients extremely happy. For example, we had a wedding recently, and we were sent inspirational photos from the client. I admire the work of others, but I would never want to copy someone’s work and get credit for it. So, we went ahead and made some changes by adding florals, pearls, and pearl accent balloons. The backdrop was absolutely stunning, and our client and her family were extremely happy and impressed with the work we provided. We also try to give a little extra to our clients whenever possible to show our gratitude for choosing us. Designs by Queen B started off small and have successfully turned into what it is today. I am proud of myself and my team for going above and beyond for each and every client. We try to make sure everyone is extremely happy, and if they need a helping hand the day of the event, we are more than glad to give it.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Omg, yes!!! I love helping others, and there’s no gatekeeping here. If you’re starting out, take balloon or event planning classes. There are many artists out there who give great classes, whether it’s in a group or a one-on-one. If you’re not sure about making that investment yet, YouTube, IG reels, Tik Tok will be your go-to. A lot of artists or event planners are also open and willing to give advice and share some tips, so reach out to them when you can; it can be super helpful. There’s so many people out there that give great tips and tutorials. If you have someone that you know is a balloon artist or event planner, ask if you can tag along so you can get a feel of what a set-up is like and what prep work goes into it, such as transportation, deliveries, materials, etc. The materials you use are also important. I love my Cricut and use it very often as it’s great for custom vinyl for my backdrops; this will be a great tool for you if you’re starting out. Practice with Amazon balloon kits as it’s a cheap way to practice, the quality is not great for actual decorating but it’s a great way to practice. Be aware, having all of these materials on hand can take up lots of space in your home so make sure you have a place to store it all. Balloons, accessories, and supplies can add up fast! Also, be very clear with your client and have a contract in place so there are no misunderstandings. Being as concise as possible is beneficial to both you and your clients. And please don’t undervalue your work, even if you’re just starting out. Charge what you feel your work is worth, as this was a lesson I had to learn the hard way.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.designsbyqueenb.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designsby_queenb?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/designsbyqueenb?mibextid=ZbWKwL
